Single Balloon Enteroscopy Procedures in Colorado
If you need a single balloon enteroscopy in Colorado, Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates is the team to trust. Precision and efficiency are essential when diagnosing and treating conditions in the small intestine. RMG is a leader in performing the single balloon enteroscopy procedure, so we’re happy to answer any questions you have about it. More importantly, we’re proud to use this advanced technique to help our patients throughout Colorado achieve better gastrointestinal health. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you should know about single balloon enteroscopy. Learn its preparation instructions, what to expect during the procedure, recovery tips, and why we’re the region’s go-to provider below.
What Is a Single Balloon Enteroscopy?
Single balloon enteroscopy is an innovative procedure used to examine the small intestine. Typically, this area of the digestive system is challenging to access. However, using a specialized endoscope equipped with a balloon, we can explore deep into the gastrointestinal tract. The single balloon enteroscopy technique allows our gastroenterologists to diagnose and treat abnormalities such as bleeding, blockages, or growths in the small intestine. The procedure can also assist in retrieving tissue biopsies or removing polyps. It has revolutionized the way we approach certain GI conditions because it allows us to evaluate the small intestine without surgery.
Who May Need an Enteroscopy?
If we need to examine your small intestine or its lining, there’s no better way to do so than with a single balloon enteroscopy procedure. It enables us to provide specific diagnoses for various conditions related to your GI tract. It may also be the next step after other imaging tests – like small bowel X-rays or capsule endoscopies – reveal abnormalities requiring further evaluation. Our experts typically recommend an enteroscopy for patients with:
- Unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding
- Abdominal pain without a known cause
- Suspected tumors or abnormal growths in the small intestine
- Suspected Crohn’s disease or other inflammatory issues
- Small intestine polyps
- Abnormal narrowing of the intestine
- Bleeding areas inside the small bowel
Preparing for a Single Balloon Enteroscopy
Before your procedure, following our single balloon enteroscopy prep instructions is critical to ensure accurate results. These may include:
- Diet Restrictions – You must follow specific diet instructions to ensure the procedure is as safe and effective as possible. We may ask you to adhere to a liquid diet for a period of time before your small bowel enteroscopy. Additionally, you’ll need to fast for at least eight to 12 hours before your appointment.
- Arrival Time – We’ll set a clear appointment time that aligns with your schedule. Please plan ahead and show up early to ensure a smooth check-in process.
- Medications – You may need to adjust your medication routine. This includes blood thinners, diabetes medication, and any over-the-counter supplements. Always consult with your doctor beforehand.
- Transportation – Because we’ll use sedatives to ensure your comfort, you’ll be unable to drive yourself home. Arrange for someone to accompany you and provide transportation afterward.
Understanding the Single Balloon Enteroscopy Procedure
The single balloon enteroscopy procedure is performed under sedation to ensure your comfort. While you’re sedated, your doctor will use a long, flexible endoscope equipped with a single inflatable balloon to carefully move through the small intestine. The balloon alternately inflates and deflates to help navigate and guide the scope deeper into the GI tract. Once in the targeted area, your doctors can visually examine your small intestine, take biopsies, stop bleeding, and remove polyps as needed. They can also use advanced tools to treat the deep part of your small bowel since it’s now easily accessible. This procedure usually takes an hour to 90 minutes, but yours could vary depending on its complexity.
Single Balloon Enteroscopy Recovery
Following your procedure, RMG’s expert staff will monitor you in a recovery room until your sedative wears off. You can then expect the following during single balloon enteroscopy recovery:
- Post-Procedure Symptoms – It’s common to feel bloated or experience mild cramping. These feelings will typically subside within a few hours.
- Eating and Drinking – Most of our patients can resume a normal diet within a few hours of their procedure, but please follow your doctor’s advice.
- Full Recovery – Even though the procedure is minimally invasive, give yourself a full day to rest, relax, and recover.
Benefits of a Single Balloon Enteroscopy
The efficiency and accuracy of single balloon enteroscopy make it a valuable tool in modern gastroenterology. Our patients and providers appreciate its many benefits, which include:
- Minimally invasive compared to traditional surgical procedures
- Allows for diagnostic and therapeutic measures during the same session
- Precise access to areas of the small intestine that other tests can’t reach
- Short recovery times
Next Steps Following Your Enteroscopy
Everyone’s single balloon enteroscopy recovery is different. Your doctor’s findings will determine what types of treatments you may need. We’ll evaluate the results to identify any abnormalities or areas for concern before proposing a comprehensive plan to improve your gastrointestinal health. If your doctor discovers a condition that requires immediate medical attention, we’ll walk you through your options. Sometimes, that may include simple approaches like dietary changes or medication. But if you need further intervention, we can offer solutions.
Why You Should Choose Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates
At Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates, we’re committed to providing cutting-edge care for our patients. Through single balloon enteroscopy, we offer a minimally invasive solution for exploring, diagnosing, and treating conditions deep in the digestive tract that may not be reached with a standard endoscopy or colonoscopy. Our experienced team ensures precise results and prioritizes your comfort. We’re proud to offer expert care tailored to the individual needs of our patients throughout Colorado.
Choosing the right care provider matters. RMG brings expertise, compassion, and the latest techniques to every step of your care. We stand out because of our:
- Specialists – Our team includes board-certified gastroenterologists trained in advanced procedures.
- Facilities – We use state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
- Patient-First Approach – Your comfort, health, and trust are at the core of our practice.
Contact Us to Schedule an Enteroscopy Today
If you or someone you know may benefit from a single balloon enteroscopy, don’t hesitate to contact Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates. We have many convenient locations in Colorado to serve you. With our specialized expertise, you’ll always be in trusted hands. Request an appointment today to learn more about single balloon enteroscopy and take charge of your GI health.
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